And now, researchers around the world are exploring its potential as a producer of super-efficient, super-sustainable clean energy. A paper recently published in the journal Nature Communications by scientists at the Technion Institute of Technology in Israel revealed a new bio-photo-electro-chemical cell that combines membranes extracted from spinach leaves and sunlight, producing a highly efficient flow of electrons.

According to the researchers, the cell "paves the way for the development of new technologies" that use water and solar energy, rather than harmful greenhouse gases.

The research was conducted under the guidance of Professor Noam Adir, dean of the Israeli institute's chemistry department. Also instrumental in the study were Technion doctoral students and professors.

In the video below, Adir explains the ins and outs of his research, and how this green leafy vegetable could be used as a clean, renewable energy source in the future.

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Jaime Bender
is a staff writer, copy editor and web producer at From the Grapevine who also manages Israeli Kitchen, From The Grapevine’s food channel.